The Nigerian Government has reaffirmed its commitment to repositioning its printing industry, pledging sustained support for reforms aimed at making the sector more competitive and professionally driven.
The Minister of Information and National Orientation, Mohammed Idris, gave the assurance at the Printing Industry Stakeholders’ Summit organised by the Chartered Institute of Professional Printers of Nigeria (CIPPON) in Abuja.
He said the government was ready to partner with the institute in advancing policies that would strengthen the industry and unlock its economic potential.
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“As Minister of Information and National Orientation, for as long as I remain in office, I will continue to support and advance your cause. Whatever you have that can contribute to the advancement of this association, please feel free to come to us. We have desk officers who will listen to you, and we have a department dedicated to working with you,” Idris said.
The Minister noted that the Nigerian Government Printing Press and other public institutions could benefit from closer collaboration with CIPPON to improve service delivery and raise industry standards.
“We even have a Government Press. CIPPON can help us maximise its potential because, as it stands today, we are not getting the best out of it,” he stated.
Idris acknowledged that the printing industry was facing increasing pressure from digital technology but stressed that the sector still had enormous opportunities if operators embraced innovation.
“The migration to digital platforms is a major challenge for this industry. But that does not mean the industry will become extinct. It is how you embrace technology and evolve that will keep you relevant,” he said.
The Minister also urged practitioners to put aside lingering disputes and work together to attract greater government support.
“There is no reason why you should be in court. For 19 years, much of your history has been written in the courtroom, retarding your growth, stifling your progress and making it impossible for you to unite and get the best out of government.
“I do not see how you can achieve these aspirations if you are not united. Think about your profession and your livelihood. Once you do that, I believe the sky is the limit,” he added.
Significant Milestone
Earlier, the President and Chairman of the Governing Council of CIPPON, Clement Koko, said the institute had recorded significant milestones since the inauguration of the current Governing Council in December 2025.
According to him, CIPPON has intensified advocacy for the establishment of the Office of the Printer-General of the Federation and secured important policy engagements with key government institutions.
He disclosed that the Nigeria Customs Service had invited the institute to discussions on the proposed removal of import duties on paper, ink, printing plates, machinery and other raw materials.
“This is no small institutional milestone. Nigeria’s printing industry employs more than four million skilled and unskilled workers, making it the second-largest employer of labour after agriculture. The outcome of this engagement will determine whether the industry grows competitively,” he said.
Koko further revealed that the Bureau of Public Procurement had reaffirmed that CIPPON certification remains mandatory for companies handling Federal Government printing contracts.
He said the institute had also made progress in securing professional accreditation under the Nigerian Qualifications Framework.
Koko appealed to the Nigerian Government to facilitate the establishment of the Office of the Printer-General of the Federation and assist the institute in securing land in the Federal Capital Territory for its permanent national secretariat.
He also called on stakeholders to close ranks in the interest of the profession.
“CIPPON is not against anybody. Everything we do is for the growth of the institute and the benefit of every printer and every Nigerian who depends on this industry. We call on all stakeholders to embrace peace and mutual understanding,” he added.
The summit brought together government officials, industry leaders and printing professionals to discuss policy reforms, capacity development and strategies for enhancing the competitiveness of Nigeria’s printing and packaging industry.
